10 Timeless African statements for developing self-worth and a life of benefit
Concepts exist as signposts for human conduct; they show us how to live intensely and purposefully.
Values are the cornerstone for greatness
The greatest products of humans were borne centuries ago when high values were the norm (.Just think about the seven wonders and the mindset that achieved them)
Yet despite advancements in tech, we are incapable of equaling feats of the past. Neither is peace more widespread despite alliances, trade deals, and international cooperation!
Ancient statements remind us to be human
Values are the springboard for human activities i.e activities that build and sustain. Without them…we have the Ukraine-Russian war.
Here are 10 value statements from different cultures in Africa still relevant today for self-worth and grooming a society filled with furthering goals.
1.”Eniyan laso mi” — Yoruba — “A person’s clothing is for others to wear” -
Possessions are useful only when they offer value to others posits the Yoruba adage.
Personal desires often influence our quest for possessions but the Yoruba adage demands humans attach a higher reason namely- the furthering of others.
It calls us to view ourselves as administrators of possessions for the good of humanity and employ our time, skill, and effort in activities from which others can benefit.
2.Kurera kwedu hakusi kwevanhu” — Shona “Our wealth is not in material possessions, but in our humanity”
An abundance of valuable possessions is the meaning of wealth. The Shona people believed that these valuables were not material but consisted of the quality of our relationship with others.
These qualities included respect, kindness, selflessness, and other values we find less and less in our society.
3.”Kemey alewo, kemey alewo alo” — Tigrinya “Little by little, a little becomes a lot”
The Little by little concept, expresses patience and the reality that small things matter as opposed to get-rich-quick schemes and instant success.
It reminds us to value small actions and stay consistent in performing them.
It says “your little actions become mighty events, keep doing them”
4."Kwacha mbele, maisha mbele” — Swahili “Save for the future, life comes before money”
The saving culture provides clarity on wants and needs! The Swahili knew the importance but advised that in the face of it, we stayed sensitive to the needs of others and enjoyed when we could.
Life comes before money at all times — so sayeth the swahili.
5."Birr dagna mesebat new” — Amharic — “Charity begins at home”
The Semitic people of Ethiopia favored a culture where benefits were self evident not preached.
Their concept “Birr dagna mesebat new” extends to : The good should be evident in your surroundings, before it extends to other places.
It meant self-advertisement, show don’t tell, and starting kindness with those closest to us.
6."Isidima senyoni ezimbini, sabatha kwaye sala kum” — Xhosa — “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush”
Risk at the expense of what had been won was frowned upon by the Xhosa from southern Africa. Their concept favored progress without damage and attainment without loss.
It also called for stock-taking of possessions, gratitude, and a desire to increase wealth gradually.
If something new must be chased, let what is gained, not be lost in the process.
7. “Moya ungamusha” — Xhosa — “A calm spirit does not get stuck”
The absence of inner agitation was also prized by the Xhosa. According to them, the spirit or mind, adapted easily to challenges when calm.
The Xhosa statement is useful in present living where hustle and bustle prevail; Its practice calls for the stability of the mind regardless of changing circumstances, mindfulness despite outward happenings, and resilience in the face of adversity.
8.”Ukweli ni mzuri, lakini si rahisi kusema” — Swahili “Truth is good, but not easy to say” -
We become strong personalities by adhering to our truths, but the truth is sometimes not palatable or convenient.
The Swahili statement recognizes this fact and gives courage for holding up at moments when the truth is inconvenient or makes you unpopular.
The ultimate aim?… the buildup of authenticity.
9.”Onye wetara oji, wetara ndu” — Igbo “He who brings kola nut brings life” -
To the Igbos all men were equal and it was wrong to limit the aspirations of another.
They believed that goodwill towards another was the highest good and the kola nut was the symbol of this goodwill.
Where the kola nut was present an ill turn was impossible and life could be enjoyed to its fullest.
The usefulness of this statement is beyond kola nuts; if humans must coexist good will had to prevail.
10. A kii sọ ara rẹ̀ l’ọ̀bẹ̀ lọ” — Yoruba “One cannot use one’s own body to carry a heavy load of kola nuts.” :
The Yorubas called the bag of kolanuts the heavyweight and It was unwise for a single individual to attempt lifting it.
Behind this statement, is the value of collaboration where great feats are concerned. The greater this feat the more individuals are required.
The Yoruba advice called for teamwork, valuing perspectives, and placing goals above personal needs.
Why are these statements important in 2023?
Human endeavors are products of great power; the reason behind them should be worthy of this power.
To have the well-being of others in our hearts as the mainspring for all we means to be human. It builds integrity, self-worth, and noble pride.
